Illinois communities are at a critical moment. Afterschool and out-of-school time (OST) programs that support students, families, and working parents are facing growing uncertainty due to funding instability and proposed budget cuts. These programs provide safe spaces, mentorship, academic support, and opportunities that help young people thrive, but without strong investment, many will be scaled back or lost.
Calling your legislators is one of the most powerful ways to influence decisions. When offices receive multiple calls on an issue, it signals urgency and shows that constituents are paying attention.
Use our Action Alert to call your state legislators and urge them to protect and expand funding for afterschool and youth programs. We strongly encourage students, families, program providers, and community members to personalize your call - share your story, your experiences, and why these programs matter to you. Your voice can help decision-makers understand what’s truly at stake.
Together, we can ensure every young person in Illinois has access to the opportunities they deserve.